Kayaking in the Bahamas is a great way to explore the islands
Photos and text by Lena Stevens, for CNN • Updated 23rd June 2016
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(CNN) — Even the most renowned and experienced explorers have gotten lost among the magnificent beaches, islands and waters of the Bahamas.
From unruly pirates to British Loyalists to today's tourists, the Bahamas have long offered visitors numerous ways to explore and retreat by land and sea. Yet the best way to discover all the Bahamas have to offer is by kayak.
The Bahama Islands provide some of the world's greatest sea kayaking opportunities for expert kayakers and beginners alike.
Whether you're traveling solo or in a group, or you're less experienced or 100% ready to hop in a boat, a great place to begin your trip is in Georgetown, a wonderful city on the island of Great Exuma.
Getting there is easy. American Airlines has several flights daily from Miami.
Out-Island Explorers, owned by Dallas and Tamara Knowles, is an outfitter operating out of Georgetown.
Other kayaking tour operators include Starfish: The Exuma Adventure Center and Spirit of the West Adventures.
Out-Island offers day trips around Georgetown and Elizabeth Harbour, but to get a real feel for the islands, you'll want to spend several days and nights meandering around with a four-day/three-night guided expedition or a longer six-day/five-night excursion.
The beautiful Exuma Cays, with closeups of untouched coral reefs, deserted beaches and stunning Caribbean waters, are just paddle strokes away.
Click through the gallery at the top of this article to get a glimpse of what kayaking in the Bahamas is like.
